What is joint custody?

Many state's laws on child custody provide that joint custody is in the best interest of a minor child. Joint custody generally means that the right and responsibility to decide major issues of health, education, and welfare affecting a child are shared by the parents. Under joint custody, children may spend half their time with the mother and half with the father, although this is not always the case. Usually children will live with one parent most of the time and regularly visit the other. It is also possible in some states for one parent to have physical custody of a child but share in the joint decision making. For more information on joint custody in your state, contact a qualified attorney.